Empowering Communities, Celebrating Minnesota Locally

LAWRENCE MCDOWELL

Lawrence (Larry) McDowell, 80, of Thief River Falls, MN passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, ND.

 

Lawrence (Larry) Allen McDowell was born on December 17, 1943, son of James and Francis (Carter) McDowell. He was baptized and confirmed at the Evangelical Covenant Church in Bemidji, MN. He attended Bemidji Central School, graduating in 1961. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business from Bemidji State University in 1965 and enrolled in Law school graduating from the University of North Dakota in 1968.

 

On March 4, 1967 he married the love of his life, Ruth Brodin. Larry and Ruth were blessed with 3 children, Adam, Baird, and Anna. They made their home in Thief River Falls, MN, where he worked for Robert (Bob) Wurst and in 1968 became a partner, specializing in real estate and estate planning, known as Wurst and McDowell Limited.

 

Larry enjoyed restoring old cars, going to Cass Lake on the weekends, traveling to Florida for a few months in winters, but most of all Larry loved taking care of Ruth and their children. He was so proud of Ruth’s determination and dedication to caring for their children despite her health challenges. She was the apple of his eye and provided appreciation and love that meant the world to him.

 

He was a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church for over 40 years, ISD 564 School Board Member, Hospital Board Member, and provided legal aid for over 40 years.

 

Larry is survived by his son, Baird; brother-in-law’s, Robert (Meg) Brodin and Daniel (Petra) Brodin; sister-in-law’s, Carol (Doug) Fullen, Jane (Mark) Englund, and Elizabeth (Jimmy) Miller; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.

 

He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 56 years, Ruth; infant son, Adam; teenage daughter, Anna; his parents, James and Francis; sister, Barbara; in-laws, Rodney and Marian Brodin.

 

A funeral service for Larry will be held at the Evangelical Covenant Church, Thief River Falls, MN, on Saturday, September 28 at 11:00 AM with visitation 1 hour prior. Interment will be at Greenwood Cemetery, Thief River Falls, MN.

 

Memorials to Covenant Ability Network(CAN MN), the organization that provides for the adult group home where Larry’s son, Baird resides.

 

Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com